Summit Merchants, Shoppers Enjoy Small Business Saturday

Shoppers braved the cold Saturday to support local business owners who took part in Small Business Saturday.

Created by American Express in 2010, the annual event, celebrated between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, is now in its fourth year and serves as a way to support the small businesses that help make communities special.

According to the Small Business Saturday Insights Survey, consumers who were aware of Small Business Saturday in 2012 spent $5.5 billion with independently-owned businesses that day.

Gary Scotti, whose father, Anthony, started Scotti's Record Shop in 1956, said over the course of the four years he's been participating in the event, an average of 20 to 50 customers say they stopped in to take advantage of American Express' credit offer. This year, shoppers who use their AMEX cards will receive a $10 credit if they spend $10 or more in a single, in-store transaction at a qualifying small business.  Registration is required and additional details can be found here. In previous years, cardholders who enrolled received a $25 credit.

Toy Professor owner Geoff Stern said during last year's event he recorded his strongest sales ever for a day in November. Employee Cynthia Casale said many customers say they come to the Springfield Avenue toy shop on Small Business Saturday to show their support for the independently-owned retailer. Stern said he is ready to help any customers who have not previously registered their cards do so "on the fly" to ensure they receive the credit.  

Donna Puzella, co-owner of Sweet Nothings, said some customers have placed orders earlier in the week and will stop in on Small Business Saturday to make the most of the campaign.

Summit Mayor Ellen Dickson and her husband were out early supporting local business owners. Dickson, who purchased copies of fellow Hilltopper Cynthia Martin's new book 'Summit Historic Homes,' to give as hostess gifts this holiday season, urged residents to "shop small."

Small business owner Nicole Kavanaugh, of The Red Balloon, said the boutique is offering 20 percent off select items for baby through size 14 this weekend. Just in time for the holidays, the shop has a new selection of Red Fish wood block puzzles, which Kavanaugh said are "fun, colorful, and educational," as well as Maison Chic plush toys. Coordinating outfits for boys and girls for occasions ranging from formal to casual are available.

"This way everyone can match for their holiday pictures," the business owner said. "We also have Christmas PJs and plush robes."

The Red Balloon is extending its hours this holiday season and will remain open until 7 p.m. Thursdays and from noon to 4 p.m. Sundays. 

To hear more about what the Small Business Saturday initiative means to merchants and shoppers, view the attached video.